IAD News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD) proposed budget focuses on expanding staff recruitment and training to better serve the state’s Native communities. The $5.6 million proposal includes a $583,800 boost for staffing needs. 

“Our FY26 budget underscores the Indian Affairs Department’s deep commitment to enhancing the lives of our Native communities,” Cabinet Secretary Josett Monette said. “As the needs of our Nations, Pueblos, and Tribes continue to grow, we are responding by expanding our team and securing the necessary funds to address these challenges.”

The FY26 budget request incorporates strategic appropriations designed to significantly enhance the Indian Affairs Department’s capacity to effectively support and serve the Nations, Pueblos, and Tribes (NPTs) of New Mexico.

FY26 Appropriation Request Highlights:

• $471,600 to support the hiring of five new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, increasing the total number of FTEs to 30. The new positions include a Contract Attorney, Chief Procurement Officer, Tribal Education Policy Analyst, Tribal Water Policy Analyst and an Office Clerk. These positions not only ensure compliance with statutory requirements but also enhance the overall effectiveness of IAD, enabling the department to better serve tribal communities and the state.
• $100,000 to cover operational needs such as staff space, travel, supplies and professional employee development, ensuring that the department continues to operate efficiently and effectively.
• $249,300 continuation in transfer funds from the Tobacco Settlement Fund to maintain the support for Tobacco Cessation initiatives at the same level as FY25, continuing the department’s commitment to improving public health within Native communities.